MOST cricketers can only dream of leading their team down the pavilion steps to play on the hallowed turf at Lord's, but that's exactly what one Thurrock teenager recently achieved.

Seventeen-year-old Afra Rose Mohamed stepped up to lead a national state school side against a strong MCC Women's team in a T20 match at the iconic St John's Wood venue as part of the MCC's Womens Day celebrations.

Afra, who plays her cricket with the Belhus club and is a member of the Essex Talent Pathway, said: "I found out a week before the match from Essex that I'd be captaining a State XI of U18 players from different counties.

"It was a dream come true, opening the batting and scoring runs at Lord's made it even more special.

"From tossing the coin as captain and walking out to the middle, the game and the post-match reception, the whole experience was unforgettable. I am still re-living the moment".

Her parents, Shafeena and Baiju, watched from the members' pavilion.

Shafeena commented: "Naturally, we are very proud of Afra, this was a truly special and surreal experience for her, and for us to be there to witness it.

"An unforgettable day with memories we will treasure for ever".

Many Belhus club members have been busy congratulating Afra this week.

Chair, Martin Mailey, said: "From the determination showed at Belhus to the resilience built at Essex, Afra's journey has been one of grit, growth and unwavering belief.

"Every early morning to every ounce of hard work has led her to this moment. Afra hasn't just chased her dream, she has earned it, inspiring everyone around her to believe that dedication can turn even the boldest aspirations into reality.

"Well done from everyone at Belhus CC, we are all extremely proud of you".

Afra on the square at Lords for the toss.

Meanwhile, Samir Kansagra, head of youth cricket said: "Afra is the best example to our youth members of what hard work and dedication can achieve. Her expression as she goes out to bat at Lord's sums up the excitement and pride all of us at Belhus have felt by watching the video of the match. "

Another member, Scott Sinfield added: "What an achievement. I still remember her first game and the level that she is at now. An incredible young player who has worked so hard and deserves everything she is being rewarded with".

The sixth-former at Harris Academy, Chafford Hundred, struck four consecutive boundaries in a hard-hitting innings of 24 from just 25 balls faced.

The teams at Lords. Picture credit: Lords Cricket Ground.

However, it was the MCC team who emerged as eventual winners by 45 runs. The hosts scored 146 for four wickets and Afra's team replied with 101 for the loss of six wickets.